Syrian President Ahmad al-Shar'a addressed the United Nations General Assembly on September 23, 2026, emphasizing that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian territory. He stressed that any attempts to alter the legal status of the region are illegitimate. Al-Shar'a's statement comes amid ongoing tensions between Syria and Israel, which has occupied parts of the Golan Heights since 1967.
President al-Shar'a condemned Israel's actions in the Golan Heights, citing over 500 airstrikes and 1,200 incursions. He asserted that Syria will not accept Israel's attempts to impose its control over the region. The Syrian leader also highlighted his country's efforts to rebuild and recover from years of conflict, including unifying the military and initiating a transitional justice process.
The Syrian president expressed optimism about his country's future, citing the lifting of sanctions and the removal of Syria from the list of state sponsors of terrorism. He noted that economic production has resumed, with over 3,000 production lines operational. Al-Shar'a emphasized that Syria has demonstrated its commitment to regional security and stability.
During his address, President al-Shar'a reiterated Syria's sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which was annexed by Israel in 1981. He argued that Israel's annexation is invalid and void under international law, citing UN Security Council Resolution 497. The resolution declared Israel's annexation of the Golan Heights null and void.
The Syrian president's statement was met with attention from the international community, which has been engaged in efforts to resolve the Syrian conflict. His address highlighted the ongoing challenges facing Syria, including the Israeli occupation of the Golan Heights. Al-Shar'a's words underscored Syria's determination to assert its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
President al-Shar'a's address to the UN General Assembly reflected Syria's priorities, including rebuilding the country and promoting regional stability. He emphasized that Syria has made significant progress in recent years, including the unification of the military and the initiation of a transitional justice process. The Syrian leader's statement also highlighted the country's economic recovery.
The international community continues to monitor developments in Syria, including the situation in the Golan Heights. President al-Shar'a's statement reaffirmed Syria's commitment to its territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Syrian government's stance on the Golan Heights remains a key issue in regional and international diplomacy.
Key points
- Syria's President Ahmad al-Shar'a asserts that the Golan Heights will remain Syrian territory.
